retreat
Translation
to retreat, to withdraw, to fall back
Examples
The army was forced to retreat.
The army was forced to retreat.
He retreated to his quiet study.
He retreated to his quiet study.
Grammar Patterns
((from sth.)) ((to sth.)) to move back or away The army retreated from the city.
Similar Words
Synonyms: withdraw, fall back, pull back; Antonyms: advance, proceed
Etymology
From 're-' (back) and Old French 'traire' (to pull), related to Latin 'trahere'. It means to pull back.
Memory Tips
Think of 're-' (back) and 'treat'. Imagine going back on a treat or plan. The noun 'a retreat' can also mean a quiet place to rest.